Kathleen Lynch
Question:78 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will take steps to increase the involvement of women in agriculture; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29219/03]
Vol. 576 No. 2
78 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will take steps to increase the involvement of women in agriculture; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29219/03]
In leading the development of Irish agriculture my objectives include the retention of the maximum number of farm families and ensuring that farming is an attractive career option for young people generally. Policies pursued by my Department are geared towards achieving these objectives.
Regarding the role of women in agriculture, I established an advisory committee, which reported in September 2000. The advisory committee's report contained 36 recommendations in total, covering a broad range of policy and operational areas, relating to 19 Departments and agencies. These areas were the statistical evaluation of women farmers; employment and training; information technology; social inclusion; representation; and personal finance-legal issues.